Speeches

Remarks by Ambassador Cesar Cabrera at the Dedication Ceremony of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) Projects
Praslin Island, Seychelles

January 31, 2007

Rear Admiral Moon

Minister of Health Mrs. MacSuzy Mondon;

Distinguished guests and friends;

I am very pleased to be with you today as we dedicate the new mortuary at Bay St. Anne Hospital and the improved Anse La Blague Medical Clinic.  I am proud of the work done by the U.S. Navy Seabees and Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa over the past five months.

The strong friendship between U.S. Navy Seabees and the people of the Seychelles began in 2005 with the refurbishment of the St. Elizabeth Orphanage in 2005.  Completion of these two projects on Praslin represents a continuation of this friendship as well as the U.S. Government’s commitment to assisting the people of the Seychelles. 

These projects were funded by the U.S. Government through the Department of Defense after close cooperation with Seychelles Ministry of Health.  The Praslin projects cost an estimated 210,000 U.S. Dollars, or almost 1.2 million Seychelles Rupees. 

At this site, the existing mortuary was demolished, and a new mortuary was built providing greater capacity and accessibility.  As a result, the people of Praslin and the surrounding islands are better prepared to handle potential tragedies or disasters.
 
The Seabees also renovated the Anse La Blague Medical Clinic so that it is once again a useable facility.  A new roof, floor and electrical wiring were installed.  These projects, coupled with future projects and visits by ships from the U.S. Navy will strengthen the ties between the militaries, governments and citizens of our two countries. 

In closing, let me say that it is always an honor for me to visit Seychelles and receive your warm hospitality.  As you may know, I am from the island of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean Sea, and we share a lot of similarities.  This is my second visit to Praslin, and I am always impressed by your beautiful island and proud community.  I look forward to meeting all of you, dedicating these projects in the name of friendship, and continuing the strong relationship between the United States and the Republic of the Seychelles.

Thank you.